Avian Respiratory Emergencies: An Approach to the Dyspneic Bird

Key Points

• Signs of dyspnea in the avian patient include open-mouth breathing, increased sternal motion, and tail bobbing.
• The dyspneic patient often benefits from humidifed air and 40%-50% oxygen.
• Upper respiratory tract disease is a common clinical problem, but rarely a cause of fulminant respiratory distress.
• Tracheal obstruction is associated with acute onset of inspiratory and expiratory dyspnea, and is best managed short-term by air sac cannulation. Important causes of tracheal disease are aspergillosis and seed inhalation.
• Aspergillosis and chlamydiosis are important causes of pneumonia and air sacculitis. Onset is generally insidious, however subtle, non-specific signs of illness are often missed and patients can present with dyspnea and prolonged expiration. Treatment frequently includes systemic therapy and nebulization.
• Air sac compression caused by extrathoracic disease, such as hepatomegaly, is another important cause of respiratory compromise.
• Low humidity and exposure to inhalant irritants such as strong fumes or cigarette smoke are important risk factors causing respiratory tract inflammation.
• Survey radiography is a valuable diagnostic tool, particularly in medium to large-sized parrots. Additional diagnostic testing may include cytology, culture, endoscopy, hematology, and serum biochemistry.